Neuroplasticity Flashcards
what is neuroplasticity?
The brain’s ability to modify, change, and adapt both structure and function throughout life and in response to experience
what is synaptic plasticity?
The connection between neurons can be modified
what are the different processes of neuroplasticity?
Neurogenesis
synaptogenesis
synaptic plasticity
cortical reorganization
when does neuroplasticity take place?
constantly throughout the lifespan
is neuroplasticity always good?
no, it can be maladaptive in some cases
what is an example of maladaptive neuroplasticity?
a smoke alarm leading to a dog being scared then translates to that dog being scared of any loud sounds
what is homosynaptic plasticity?
Changes in synaptic strength localized to
a post-synaptic target neuron stimulated by its own pre-synaptic neuron
what is heterosynaptic plasticity?
activity of a neuron leads to changes in the strength of synaptic connections of other neurons
what are the 2 main types of short term plasticity?
short term potentiation
short term depression
what is short term potentiation?
short term increase in synaptic strength due to an increase in NT release
“neurons that fire together, wire together”
what is short term depression?
short term decrease in synaptic strength due to decreased availability of NT
“neurons that fire out of synch, lose their link”
what is long term potentiation?
long term increase in synaptic connections
what is long term depression?
long term decrease in synaptic connections
are short term changes in synaptic strength temporary or permanent changes?
Temporary functional changes
are long term changes in synaptic strength temporary or permanent changes?
More permanent, structural changes
